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To compare a fluorescence-aided identification technique (FIT) with a conventional light source (CLS) for removing composite during debonding of brackets with respect to time needed, composite remnants, and tooth substance loss. Twelve maxillary models with 10 bovine teeth each were digitally surface-scanned and metal brackets were bonded on each tooth with Opal Seal and Opal Bond. Two operators: an experienced orthodontist (A) and an undergraduate student (B) received six models each and were asked to remove the composite remnants with a tungsten carbide bur and Sof-Lex discs by both a conventional light source (CLS group, n = 3), and fluorescent inducing light (FIT group, n = 3). The time taken was recorded, and a postoperative scan was digitally superimposed on the preoperative scan to quantify number of teeth with composite remnants and volume and thickness of enamel loss and composite remnants. Chi-square test and independent t-tests were performed to compare methods with a significance level of 5%. Compared to CLS, both operators needed significantly less time when using the FIT method and degree of enamel loss, height, and volume of composite remnants and total remaining composite remnants were significantly reduced. By FIT, the volume of enamel loss was significantly reduced for operator A only. Operator B removed the same enamel volume with either method. Cleanup after orthodontic debonding with the FIT was superior regarding time needed and removal of composite remnants. Total enamel loss reduction was operator-dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the force systems produced by transpalatal arches (TPAs) activated according to the six classes of geometries described by Burstone and Koenig. Materials and Methods: Sixty appliances were tested for first-order activations using a mechanical force testing system. The TPAs were first checked for passivity in sagittal, transverse, and vertical planes at the measuring machine. Then 10 appliances per group were activated using a millimeter template to obtain the six classes of geometries, and the activated appliances were inserted into lingual tubes of the Force System Identification machine that recorded the deactivation forces and moments delivered by both terminal ends of the TPAs. Results: The overall force system with the actual values of forces and moments recorded by each type of activation was illustrated and compared with the mathematical model reported by Burstone and Koenig. Although a great consistency of the direction of forces and moments were observed, the theoretically feasible force systems could not be fully accomplished by the TPA activated for the six classes of geometries. Conclusion: The first-order activations of the TPA can deliver predictable force systems in respect to the direction of forces and moments attainable, but some unexpected forces and moments are also produced. Careful clinical monitoring is, therefore, strongly recommended when using this statically indeterminate system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the study on the three-dimensional (3D) evaluation of condylar and mandibular growth among patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) with unilateral temporomandibular joint who were treated with distraction splint. The cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans and reconstruction of 3D models were conducted. The results were outlined and conclude on the effect of orthopedic functional treatment on condylar adaptation and modeling.